Aircraft Power Allocation for Engine Restart
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine engines in aircraft face challenges in efficiently restarting a non-operational engine during flying operations, as existing systems lack a robust method to allocate power effectively between generator systems to support engine restarts, particularly when one engine is inoperative.
Innovation Solution
A method and electrical power system architecture that selectively allocates power between generator systems based on demand, allowing a mechanically connected starter/generator to receive combined power output for restarting the non-operational engine, while ensuring essential electrical loads remain powered by sharing power generation between high and low pressure spools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If power is allocated from a single generator system to restart the non-operational engine, then the restarting process can be simplified, but the power demand exceeds the capability of one generator and risks engine stall
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines power output from multiple generator systems (HP and LP spools) to provide sufficient power for engine restart. The share regulator merges power contributions from both generator systems, allowing the combined power output to meet the high power demand of the starter/generator without exceeding individual generator capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The share regulator dynamically adjusts power allocation between generator systems based on real-time conditions. During engine restart, the regulator modifies share ratio values to optimize power distribution, transitioning from normal operation power sharing to restart-support power sharing as flight conditions and power demands change.
2Reliability
If all electrical loads are maintained during engine restart, then operational continuity is improved, but the power demand exceeds available power from operational engines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and prioritizes essential electrical loads during engine restart operations. The share regulator identifies critical loads that must be maintained and allocates sufficient power to them, while non-essential loads are reduced or shed to ensure adequate power availability for the restart process and essential systems.
Solution Approach 2:
Different electrical loads receive differentiated power allocation based on their criticality. Essential loads associated with flight safety and engine restart receive guaranteed power supply, while non-essential loads are subject to power reduction. This localized quality approach ensures critical functions are maintained while managing overall power consumption.
3Productivity
If share ratio values are dynamically adjusted during flight, then power allocation efficiency is improved, but the control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The share regulator implements feedback control by continuously monitoring flight conditions, power demand, and generator system performance. Based on this feedback, the regulator dynamically adjusts share ratio values to optimize power allocation efficiency, ensuring that each generator contributes appropriately to meet varying power demands while maintaining system stability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient restarting of non-operational engines with reduced power draw from individual generators, improved operational efficiency, and the ability to maintain essential electrical loads during engine restarts, enhancing aircraft performance and reducing the risk of engine stall.
Implementation Method 1
a generator coupled with a gas turbine engine will convert the mechanical power of the engine into electrical energy needed to power accessories
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical power system architecture and method for allocating power includes a power distribution bus configured to receive power generated by a first engine having a first generator and a second generator, a first set of electrical buses connected with the power distribution bus and associated with the first engine, and a second set of electrical buses configured to selectively connect with the power distribution bus.